In a significant development for women’s professional basketball, former Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam, alongside his wife Crissy Haslam, has submitted a bid to establish a Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) franchise in Nashville, Tennessee.The proposed team, named the “Tennessee Summitt,” aims to commence play in the 2028 season
The name “Tennessee Summitt” pays tribute to the late Pat Summitt, the esteemed former head coach of the University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers.Summitt, who passed away in 2016, is celebrated as the winningest coach in NCAA Division I basketball history, with a remarkable record of 1,098 wins and 208 losses over 38 seasons.Her legacy continues to inspire generations of athletes and coaches.
The ownership group backing the Tennessee Summitt is distinguished by several prominent figures
- Candace Parker: A three-time WNBA champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist, Parker is a Tennessee native who played under Summitt at the University of Tennessee.Her involvement underscores a deep personal connection to Summitt’s legacy.
- Peyton Manning: The former NFL quarterback and two-time Super Bowl champion brings his extensive sports experience and community engagement to the ownership group.
- Tim McGraw and Faith Hill: The renowned country music duo adds a touch of Nashville’s rich musical heritage to the group, reflecting the city’s vibrant cultural scene.
Bill Haslam emphasized the potential of the Tennessee Summitt to serve as an inspiration for women and girls across Tennessee.He stated, “We believe a WNBA team, based in Nashville, could serve as a beacon for girls and women, young and old, across Tennessee, while also creating more opportunities for sports fans as our community continues to grow.”
The bid includes plans for a state-of-the-art practice facility that would also serve youth basketball programs, fostering the development of young athletes and promoting community engagement.
The WNBA has expressed interest in expanding to a 16th team by the 2028 season … The addition of the Tennessee Summitt aligns with this strategic goal, offering a new market with a rich basketball tradition and a passionate fan base.Other cities, including Cleveland, have also submitted bids, indicating a competitive selection process.
The Tennessee Summitt plan to host their home games at Bridgestone Arena, the home venue of the NHL’s Nashville Pred … .This venue choice reflects the city’s commitment to providing top-tier facilities for professional sports teams.
The bid for the Tennessee Summitt represents a significant step forward in the growth and diversification of women’s professional sports in Tennessee.With a distinguished ownership group, a strategic vision for community impact, and alignment with the WNBA’s expansion plans, the Tennessee Summitt have the potential to become a cornerstone of Nashville’s sports and cultural landscape.